Contacts lost in eye not such a rare thing—but 27?

Dr. Steinemann explained that continued contact lens wear over time can cause eyes to become less sensitive, and it is possible the discomfort from the clumped lenses was confused with dry eye symptoms in this U.K. case. An earlier visit to an eye care specialist could have detected this issue sooner.

Dr. Steinemann pointed out that contact lens wearers should see an eye care provider annually.

“Contact lenses—even in the best of circumstances in patients with a lot of lens wear experience—can cause chronic changes that need to be monitored,” Dr. Steinemann said.

Physicians should treat patient calls with a higher level of suspicion if they know the patient has a history with contact lens-related complaints.

“Contact lenses are a wonderful way to correct vision, but safe is relative,” he said. “It is largely dependent on the wearer taking ownership in proper care. There’s no such thing as absolute safety.”

Consistent reminders for patients, such as not to sleep with their contacts and know when to discard lenses, are key. “Follow the rules of the road,” Dr. Steinemann said. “There’s a reason why those guidelines are established.”

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